June 15, 2018

The weather forced the event to move from Johnsen Field to the Rugby Armory on June 1.

Over 65 survivors were honored at this year's relay according to Laurie Odden, the north region senior community development manager for the American Cancer Society. Honorary survivor Hallie Anderson spoke at the event, sharing her story.

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"What a great story she has," said Odden, "so inspiring."

According to Odden this year's event raised over $53,000.

Of the 15 teams in the relay this year, the Event Planning Committee raised the most funds with a total of $10,363. Team Hope wasn't far behind with $9,903, and the Support Squad took third place in fundraising with a total of $5,721. Angie Busch (of Team Hope)* raised the most money as an individual fundraiser with a total of $2,980. Terri Jacobson took second with $2,201, and Darci Gross third with a total of $1,561.

Other fundraising opportunities went on throughout the night, including a cake walk which Odden said was popular with kids.

The community supper, served by the Rugby Jaycees, raised over $1,000.

Relay for Life events have been done in Pierce County since 2004. In that time over $600,000 in funds have been raised, which go toward research, advocacy, education and patient services.

"Thanks to the community," Odden said. "Together we will attack cancer from every angle."

The largest Relay event in Pierce County was in 2016, when over $61,000 in funds was raised.

*UPDATES & CORRECTIONS: 6-19-18 Angie Busch, not Lindsay Bush, was the top fundraiser.